JP2001509078A - How to minimize waste when coating fluids with a slide coater - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: A method for minimizing waste caused by defects at the edges of the coating on the substrate (18) applied by the slide coater (34). The first fluid (55) flows at a first flow rate from a main portion of the first slot (46) and flows at a flow rate different from the first flow rate from an end of the first slot. The second fluid (60) flows from the second slot (48) onto the second slide surface (53), and the second slide surface (53) allows the second coating liquid to flow from the second slide surface to the second slide surface (53). It is positioned and directed against the first slide surface (53) to flow over the first coating liquid.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION            When coating a fluid using a slide coater                          How to minimize waste Technical field   The present invention uses a slide coater to coat a fluid, Heat-sensitive or photosensitive elements, or data storage elements (magnetic computer tape And floppy or rigid disks or diskettes) How to minimize wasted time. Background art   The configuration of a known photothermal dry silver film or paper product 10 is shown in FIG. This configuration, A plurality of layers can be formed by coating on a substrate. One of the layers is Tona Photosensitized in a binder resin that can contain binders, developers, photosensitizers and stabilizers A photothermal emulsification layer 14 made of silver soap. For the base material of the photothermal emulsion layer 14 In order to improve the adhesion, the undercoat layer 16 may be disposed between them. Finish coating layer 12 Is disposed on the photothermal emulsifying layer 14 and contains a toner and a slip agent. It can be composed of high quality resin. Substrate 18 may be a paper-based substrate or polymer foil. Film-based substrates may be used. The halation-resistant layer 20 includes an undercoat layer, a photothermal emulsifying layer, Coating on the surface of the base material 18 opposite to the surface on which the finish coating layers 16, 14, 12 can be placed Can be. The composition of layers 16, 14 and 12 should be selected in consideration of product performance and adjacent The components constituting the coating layer may be incompatible.   The fluids that constitute each of the undercoat layer, the photothermal emulsification layer, and the finish coat layers 16, 14, and 12 (Multiple precursors) can be coated using the simultaneous multi-layer coating method. It is preferred to use and determine. Slide coating is described in U.S. Pat.No. 2,761,419 (Me rcier et al., 1956) and others (VCH Publishers launched in 1992). E. D. Cohen and E.A. B. Gutoff's Modern Coating and Drying Technolog y), multi-layer coating to coat multiple fluid layers on a substrate Is the law. The various fluids that make up the layers of lexical material are open on inclined planes. Out of multiple slots. These fluids flow down a plane and traverse the application gap. And flow over the substrate moving upwards. The fluid is on a plane, across the application gap, Alternatively, the final coating will not overlap the individual Claim to be composed of layers. Slot minutes, this minute about the use of bevels In the field, many developments have been reported and described in the literature (ED Cohen and And E.B.Gutoff, ibid.).   The multi-layer slide coating described in the above reference is illustrated in FIG. Product coatings for coating layers that contain incompatible solutes in miscible solvents, such as When applied to a game, this can cause the "bleed through" problem described here. there is a possibility. Incompatible solutes are solutes that do not mix over part or all of the concentration range. Yes, miscible solvents are solvents that mix in any proportion.   During coating, by disturbance, the coating layer on the bottom coating layer One may penetrate the slide surface through the bottom coating layer. You. The solute of one or more coating layers on the bottom coating layer is the best If the underlying layer is completely incompatible with solutes, the penetrating coating layer will It contacts the ride surface 53 and is not quickly self-cleaned by the bottom coating layer. This phenomenon is called bleeding. (The term "self-cleaning" means that the bottom coaty Coating layer (or bottom coating layer and one or more adjacent coatings) Liquid layer) wipes off the penetrating coating liquid layer adhering to the slide surface. means. )   When bleeding occurs, the flow of the coating solution on the slide surface 53 is disturbed, and This can cause striped defects. Due to striped defects, finished products Product quality may be degraded to the extent that it is unusable and unusable.   Another thing that occurs during multi-layer slide application of product configurations that contain various solvents in various layers The problem is that the interdiffusion of solvent between these layers can cause one or more of the layers in one or more of the layers. Phase separation of one or more solutes. Due to this phase separation, Can cause drawbacks, such as fish eyes, or can disrupt the flow and separate fluid layers Applying these configurations using multi-layer coating technology to mix May not be possible.   Conventional slide coating is limited to coating solutions with relatively low viscosity. S The use of a "support layer" in ride coating is described in U.S. Patent No. 4,001,024 (Dittman and And Rozzi, 1977), and the authors of this patent state that "the bottom layer has a low viscosity. Coating as a thin layer of the composition of By coating as a thicker layer of viscosity "above for slide application Insisted on improving the law. The author further states, "Co-confined in the lower two layers. Mixing between the lower two layers due to the vortexing of the The two-layer coating composition should be selected such that “mixing between layers does not harm the product”. State that you must choose. However, this patent does not cover Does not address separation issues.   U.S. Pat.No. 4,113,903 (Choinski, 1978) discloses that a low viscosity support layer is Bridge between coater lip and web in bead formed by docoter " Tends to be unstable and may limit the web speed at which this method can be applied. It is stated that. To solve this problem, Choinski proposed a non-Newtonian pseudo Using a plastic liquid as the support, the support is placed on a slide with a low shear rate and High viscosity in the bead and low viscosity near the dynamic contact line with high shear rate It is proposed to. U.S. Pat.No. 4,525,392 (Ishizaki and Fuchigami (1985), the viscosity of a non-Newtonian (i.e., low shear) support layer is Is within 10 cp of adjacent layers and must be low at high shear rates ing. However, these patents do not address the problem of see-through or phase separation. No.   U.S. Pat.No. 4,572,849 (Koepke et al., 1986) states, The inter-layer mixing between the two layers below "caused by swirling" is cited as a restriction of the above patent, A method for adjusting such a coating gap to solve such interlayer mixing is described. This one The method also uses a low viscosity accelerating layer as the bottom layer and another layer with higher viscosity Can be placed on top of A slightly different layer configuration is also described, in which case In addition to the bottom low viscosity accelerating layer, a low viscosity spreading layer is used as the top layer. The same arrangement is described in US Pat. No. 4,569,863 (Koepke et al., 1986) curtain coating. Used for cloth. However, these patents also show bleeding on the slide surface. Or does not address the issue of phase separation.   U.S. Pat. No. 4,863,765 (Ishizuka, 1988) discloses that a thin layer of diluted water Use it as a coating to accelerate coating speed and eliminate mixing between the bottom two layers The law is described. Related U.S. Pat.Nos. 4,976,999 and 4,977,852 (Ishizuka, 1990a and 1990b) are described in US Pat. No. 4,863,765. Use a support slide configuration containing water as the support Use a relatively low slot height in the body layer to reduce streaks and to reduce the width of the support layer Bead edge so that it extends beyond the width of the other layers to be coated on the body Has stabilized. This patent also does not address the issue of see-through or phase separation .   In summary, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,001,024, 4,113,903 and 4,525,392 Can cause product defects due to inter-layer mixing between the lower two layers in the coating bead. It is necessary to adjust the composition of these two layers so that they do not mix. U.S. Pat.No. 4,572,849 (And related US Pat. No. 4,569,863) do not limit the composition of the layers, but Is limited to 100 μm to 400 μm. Similarly, U.S. Pat.Nos. 4,863,765, 4,976,999 And No. 4,977,852 do not require any particular adjustment of the composition, but use diluted water as the support. And limited to aqueous solutions. However, the bleeding caused by the product configuration shown in FIG. The exact problem is not solved by these patents. That is, as described in the above patent Some prior art products do not see through products such as the photothermal elements shown in FIG. There is no disclosure of the criteria required to enable the production to take place. further However, these patents cover the use of multi-layer cores when manufacturing products such as those shown in FIG. It also does not address the issue of phase separation, which could hinder the use of printing techniques.   Using multi-layer coating technology such as slide coating, bleeding or phase separation It is necessary to apply the incompatible solute in the miscible solvent at the same time so as not to occur. Ma In addition, such a composition is applied continuously over a wide application gap of over 400 μm, It must also be applied uninterrupted on the rice to maximize productivity. further If necessary, depending on the composition of the product, these layers can be used in organic solvents or aqueous media. It is preferable to apply from the above.   In addition, it reduces waste of coating liquid when the coating process needs to be interrupted. Need to be reduced. When the slide application starts, each fluid layer on the slide surface A uniform and streak-free flow is established. This often requires careful attention Both are monotonous and time-consuming processes. A stable and uniform fluid flow without stripes Only after establishment, the coating die moves in the moving web direction and A forming bead is formed and the coating is transferred to the web. Regular coaty If coating must be interrupted during the coating operation, Withdraw from the web.   When doing this, it is often the case that pumping and stable, uniform fluids without stripes The flow of the coating liquid is continued so that the flow is maintained. The coating liquid is vacuum trough or Collected in drainage trough and discharged into waste container. This is a disadvantage of waste of coating liquid It is.   Alternatively, minimize wastage of coating liquid when coating is suspended for a prolonged period. To stop the flow of the coating liquid completely, coat some kind of cover such as tape. Often placed on a slot in a Gudai to reduce drying. Unfortunately, this The method reduces the risk of contamination of slides and slots with adhesives, particles, fibers, etc. The effect of preventing drying and / or coagulation in the slot is very limited. Coat When restarting the scanning, the monotone process to eliminate the stripes is repeated endlessly, A stable and uniform fluid flow must be reestablished. This is also , Waste of coating liquid and loss of production time.   Yet another alternative is to reduce the flow of the coating fluid rather than stop it completely. Is Rukoto. When to use this method for volatile organic solvent based coatings On the slide surface and slide slot due to rapid evaporation of volatile organic solvents Also, drying and / or coagulation of the coating liquid occurs therein, which is not preferable. In addition, When the flow is resumed, the stripes are repeatedly erased and a stable fluid flow is not reestablished. I have to.   When a continuous flow of coating liquid is required or when the coating process requires There is a need to find ways to avoid potential streaks or drying. This need And other needs described herein include photothermal, thermosensitive, photosensitive materials and Manufacturing methods and data storage materials (such as magnetic storage media), as well as manufacturing-related questions. It is also involved in the production of other coating materials with entitlements. Disclosure of the invention   The invention described in the present specification relates to a coating method on a substrate applied to the substrate by a slide coater. This is a method of minimizing waste due to defects generated at the edge of the ting. Slide At least a first slot through which the first coating liquid flows and a second slot through which the second coating liquid flows And a second slot. The first slot is the main part of the first slot and the first slot. It has the width of the first slot including the left and right ends of one slot. This method uses the first coating liquid From the main part of the first slot at the first flow rate on the first slide surface and further on the substrate Including flowing steps. In another step, the first coating liquid is applied to the first slot. Flow from both ends onto the first slide surface and further onto the substrate. The first coating liquid is Flowing from the right end portion of the first slot having the second flow rate, the first slot having the third flow rate It flows from the left end of one slot. The second and third flow rates are different from the first flow rate. different. In another step, the second coating liquid is supplied from the second slot to the second slide. Flow over the surface. The second slide surface is positioned relative to the first slide surface; A second coating liquid flows from the second slide surface onto the first coating liquid on the first slide surface, and And the second coating liquid is directed to flow over the substrate.   Other aspects, advantages and benefits of the present invention are described in the drawings, detailed description, examples and claims. It is clear from the range. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES   The above advantages, configurations and operations of the present invention will be more fully understood from the following description and the accompanying drawings. It will be easy to understand.   FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of the configuration of a known photothermal element.   FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of the slide coater according to the present invention.   FIG. 3 is a partial top view of the slide coater shown in FIG.   FIG. 4 is a partial side sectional view of the slide coater shown in FIG.   FIG. 5 is a partial side sectional view of the embodiment of the slide coater shown in FIG.   FIG. 6 is a partial side sectional view of the embodiment of the slide coater shown in FIG.   FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the embodiment of the slide coater shown in FIG. 2 and other components. is there.   FIG. 8 is a partial top view of the embodiment of the slide coater shown in FIG.   FIG. 9 shows the slide coater shown in FIG. 2 further provided with a means for cleaning the slide coater. FIG.   FIG. 10 is used to apply pressure to the end seals in the die slot manifold. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the die block and the end of the cam.   FIG. 11 shows a partial top view of the embodiment of the slide coater of FIG. 2 including a tapered slot. FIG.   FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the tapered slot of FIG.   FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional side view of an example of a coating slot and a coating surface. It is. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Slide coating device   2 and 3 show the back-up roller 32 for coating the substrate 18 and the slurry. Shown is a slide coating device 30 generally comprised of an id coater. Slide coater 34 comprises five slide blocks 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, these blocks being 4 One fluid slot 46, 48, 50, 52 and a slide surface 53 are defined. The first sla The id block is adjacent to the coating backup roller 32, and the slide coating device A vacuum box 54 for adjusting the vacuum level by 30 is provided. This vacuum box is coated Helps maintain and stabilize the differential pressure across the bead.   The first fluid 55 is supplied to the first slot 55 through the first fluid supply 56 and the first manifold 58. 46 can be distributed. The second fluid 60 includes a second fluid supply unit 62 and a second manifold. It can be distributed to the second slot 48 via a tube 64. The third fluid 66 is the third fluid A third fluid slot through the body supply section 68 and the third fluid manifold 70; Unit 50 can be supplied. The fourth fluid 72 is connected to the fourth fluid supply unit 74 and the fourth fluid The fourth fluid slot 52 can be supplied via a fluid manifold 76. This example Here, the first fluid layer 80, also called the support layer, the second fluid layer 82, the third fluid layer 84 and Four or fewer fluid configurations 78 including a fourth fluid layer 86 may be formed. Further sla The addition of an id block allows you to add To introduce an additional fluid layer.   Fluid manifolds 58, 64, 70, and 76 extend from fluid slots 46, 48, 50, 52, respectively. Designed to be distributed with uniform width. This structure has slots 46, 48, 50, 52 Has a specific meaning when selecting the slot height H (shown in FIG. 4). Of the slot Height H is such that the pressure drop in the slot is much higher than the pressure drop across the manifold (Because excessive pressure in the die slot limits machining or bar deflection Small enough to avoid the disadvantageous problem of non-uniformity . As a result, the fluid is evenly distributed within the slot. Need to reduce flow rate It is known to make the height of the slots smaller when necessary.   The structure of the fluid manifold is such that it has a specific meaning to the flow of fluid through the manifold. Can be made with zero shear viscosity, power law index, fluid elasticity and extension action Which material properties are considered, but not limited to these. Fluid supply section Is the end of the fluid manifold (end supply structure) or the center of the fluid manifold (center supply structure) Can be arranged. Manifold design criteria are well described in the literature ( For example, Gutoff's Simplified Design of Coating Die In ternals '', Journal of Imaging Science and Technology 37 (6), 615-627 All die supply cores, including slides, extrusion and curtain coating, etc. It can be used for the printing process.   The slot blocks 38, 40, 42, 44 have the specific slot height H shown in FIG. In particular, the pressure in the manifold is minimized and the machining It can be chosen to overcome the problem of non-uniformity due to constraints. Commonly used The height of the slot to be formed is 100 to 1500 μm. Slide blocks 38, 40, 42 , 44 are displaced in plane so as to produce a slot step T as shown in FIG. I do. These steps depend on flow separation and fluid recirculation zones. To minimize the possibility of fringes and other product defects. A uniform flow of fluid over the ride surface 53 can be facilitated. these The height of the slot steps is 100-2000 μm. For the use of these steps, Well documented. Minimize the occurrence of flow separation on the slide surface 53. Another way of minimizing is to show the bevel C on the downstream side of the fluid slot as shown in FIG. Machining, and is also used in the slide application examples described herein. Can be used.   In machining slide blocks 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, fluid slots 46, 48, The finish of the block edges forming the edges of 50 and 52 is applied to the backup roller 32 As important as the leading edge of the adjacent front block 36. Engraved on these edges The presence of blemishes, burrs or other imperfections may cause the product to have streaking imperfections. You. To prevent these drawbacks, these edges are polished to a finish of less than 0.02 μm. You. For details on the procedure for finishing die edges, see PCT Publication No. WO 96/39276 and And WO 96/39275.   FIG. 4 shows the orientation of the slide coater 34 with respect to the backup roller 32 and the arrangement angle P. , Operating angle A and sliding angle S. (The slide angle S is This is the sum with the operating angle A. ) Negative placement angle P It is preferred in order to increase the content and consequently increase the stability of the coating action. But, This method can also be used with zero or positive placement angles. Slide angle S Determines the stability of the fluid flow on the inclined slide surface. Large slide angle S Causes surface waves to become unstable, resulting in coating defects Could be The sliding angle is generally 45 to 45 degrees. It is set in the range up to °. At the slide coater 34 and the closest position The distance between rolls 32 is known as gap G. The wet thickness W of each layer is Substantially separated from the toing bead but sufficient before appreciable drying occurs The near thickness on the surface of the coating substrate 18.   Other parts of the slide applicator 30 are worth further study. 5 and 6 show a slide coater including a durable low surface energy portion 88. FIG. Part is shown. These parts 88 provide the desired surface energy properties to a particular location And intended to evenly distribute the coating liquid and prevent the formation of dry material.   FIG. 7 illustrates a particular type of end feed manifold 100 and recirculation loop 102. Many The manifold 100 is inclined toward the outlet port 106, and the depth of the slot L is equal to the inlet port. It is shown decreasing from port 104 to exit port 106. This tilt angle is The flow of fluid as it passes from the inlet port 104 to the outlet port 106 of the manifold 100 Uniform distribution of fluid of that width at the outlet of the slot, taking into account the pressure drop Adjust carefully. In the case of the manifold structure shown, the fluid entering manifold 100 Some exit the fluid slots (slots 46, 48, 50 or 52) while the rest of the fluid Exits the outlet port 106 and flows to the recirculation loop 102. Outflow from exit port 106 The fluid portion can be circulated back to the inlet port 104 by the recirculation pump 108. Wear. Recirculation pump 108 provides new flow from fluid reservoir 110 and fresh fluid pump 112. Accept the body. With the fluid filter 114 and the heat exchanger 116, fresh fluid After filtration and heating or cooling, it can be mixed with the recirculating fluid. this In that case, the same criteria apply further as apply to the construction of the end feed manifold. I However, the manifold structure, that is, the shape and inclination of the cavity, depends on the height of the slot. The recirculation rate used, independent of the choice of fluid and fluidity. You. Using a similar recirculation loop to coat high shear thinning magnetic materials U.S. Pat.No.4,623,501 (Ishizaki, 1986).   The flow of the fluid on the slide surface 53, as shown in FIG. 3 (and FIG. 8), Facilitated using edge guides 119 on each edge of surface 53. Edge guide 119 The liquid is poured onto the solid surface to form a coating of a certain width, and the flow of the green fluid Helps to stabilize. A specific type of edge guide 119 shown in FIG. It is generally known in the printing art. Edge guides are straight, slide surface Direct the flow vertically to the upper slots 46,48,50,52. Edge guide 119 Metals such as aluminum, steel, aluminum; polytetrafluoroethylene (eg TEFLON^{T M} ), Polyamide (e.g. NYLON^TM), Poly (methylene oxide) or polyacetator (For example, DELRIN^TM) Etc .; wood; one type including ceramic Manufactured from materials or polytetrafluoroethylene It can be made from one type of metal, such as coated steel.   The edge guide 119A may be of a convergent type shown in FIG. The convergence angle θ is between 0 ° and 90 ° 0 ° corresponds to the case of the linear edge guide of FIG. Angle θ is centered By increasing the coating thickness at the bead edge It can be chosen to increase the stability of the blade edge. In another embodiment, the edge ZiGuide, as described above, durable low surface energy surfaces or parts Can be included. A cover or shroud (shown in FIG. No) can be used. Multi-layer slide coating   When dried (or solidified) using the slide coating device 30, the components shown in FIG. Organic solvent-based coating to form element 108 (excluding halation resistant layer 20) A one-time effective coating method has been developed. This method can be one or more The number of carrier fluid layers 82, 84, 86 includes a dispersed or dissolved phase, and these phases are the first (one). The substrate is incompatible with the components of the layer 80 and mixes with the fluid layer on the slide surface. It is particularly effective when it works by preventing or minimizing interference.   As used herein, the incompatibility of a dispersed or dissolved phase refers to their substantial nature. Coating layers containing different dispersed or dissolved phases may be the same or different. The solvent containing the layer should not be easily mixed, even though it is miscible and readily interdiffuse. Means One example of such a system is VITEL where the first layer is dissolved in MEK^TMPE2200 BUTVAR in which the second layer is dissolved in MEK^TMMulti-layer coating containing B-79 You. This system tends to produce bleed-through after coating.   A counterexample where bleed-through is not a problem is that all layers have a substantial It is provided by a conventional silver halide photosensitive composition containing a gelatin component. Bleeding street The second counterexample where the problem is not a problem is that only the solvent content (i.e. Provided by two solutions or dispersions.   In addition, as used herein, “phase separation” refers to in a different fluid layer. One or more solutes in one or more layers by interdiffusion of different solvents Mean that separate phases are formed simultaneously by spiky decomposition.   For systems that tend to bleed through, the interface between the support layer and the various support layers Of the fluid, eventually causing one or more layers of supporting fluid to enter the surface of the slide Sticks and produces excessive streaks and waste (i.e., bleed through) when producing the desired product. It can cause kinking. We have described these bleeding phenomena in one of two ways: It has been found that it can be minimized or prevented.   (1) Prevent interface destruction due to naturally occurring turbulence, or   (2) coating and drying to allow the supporting fluid layer to penetrate the slide surface Substantially delay until the average time required for   Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is the "self-cleaning" capability, Layer (or bottom coating layer and one or more adjacent coating layers) flow Is the ability to clean the penetrating coating liquid layer adhering to the slide surface. Prevent bleeding Such methods are described in the examples below.   One embodiment of the method is more dense than the upper or supporting fluid layers 82, 84, 86, A first layer or support having a sufficiently low viscosity that can be coated at a high speed The support layer 80 is included. Any of the support layers 82, 84, 86 may be incompatible with the first layer 80. layer 82 and 80 may be incompatible, as are layers 84 and 82 and layers 86 and 84.   Other embodiments of the method include a first layer 80 that is denser than a second layer 82. The second layer 82 is denser than the third layer 84, and the third layer 84 is denser than the fourth layer 86. No.   Other embodiments of the method include a layer having sufficient thickness, viscosity or density. The turbulence causes the support layer placed on these layers to contact the slide surface 53 Absent.   Another example is a low viscosity, low density first layer (also known as a support layer) 80 or 80 And a second layer 82 (ie, a first support layer), the second layer 82 being self-cleaned by the first layer 80. Thus, it is denser than the first layer 80, the third layer 84, and the fourth layer 86. Layers 80 and 82 are compatible And layer 84 and / or layer 86 are incompatible with layer 80. good. One preferred embodiment is a low viscosity, low density first (ie, support) layer 80 or And a second layer 82 (ie, a first support layer), wherein the second layer 82 is self-cleaned by the first layer 80. , The first layer 80 and the layer 84 are denser, and the layer 84 is denser than the layer 86. Layer 80 and 82 is compatible, layers 80 and 84 may be incompatible, layers 84 and 86 may be incompatible. good.   Another example includes a first support layer that is sufficiently viscous and thick, and due to turbulence, There is no contact between the support layer 84 or 86 and the slide surface 53 and therefore bleeding You can prevent the passage.   In systems where phase separation occurs, fine particles or gels form in the layer, resulting in streaks or fish. This can cause defects such as eyes, and in some cases, complete disruption of the flow, and Mixing of the individual fluid layers may occur. To avoid such phase separation, a multilayer core Solvents and solutes in the different layers to be coated using Select solutes from any layer to ensure that all of the enrichment that occurs during the coating and drying stages There must be no phase separation in the body. Therefore, the present invention Another embodiment is that any one layer or a combination of solvents The proper choice of the solvents in the different layers is such that no phase separation occurs.   The following examples were performed using fluids used in the manufacture of photothermal imaging elements. However, the configuration and method described herein using the slide applicator 30 is heat sensitive. Other imaging materials such as, photosensitive photoresists, photopolymers, etc. Or imaging, such as magnetic, optical or other recording materials, adhesives, etc. It is also useful when coating other materials. This configuration and method are Particularly suitable when the fluid in the layer is undesirable and bleeding can cause significant waste . How to minimize drying when starting / pausing coating   As described above, the sixth slide block (not shown) is shown in FIGS. Slide block shown, and placed adjacent to the fifth slide block 44. Can be. The sixth slide block includes first, second, third, fourth and fifth slides. Can be coated on the coating surface of id blocks 36, 38, 40, 42, 44 A fifth fluid (not shown) is introduced. With the fifth fluid, Cotin Over material waste, drying and streaking that can occur if the process needs to be interrupted. I can deal with the problem mentioned above. The fifth fluid has a protective blanket on the other coating liquid. Form a ket and dry these coatings on slide surfaces and edge guides Can be minimized, if not eliminated. The fifth fluid also uses various slides. Self-cleans dirt and debris from the slide surface and pre-wet the slide surface. Then, one or more coating liquids are introduced to one or more slide surfaces. These fluids are related to poor drying and poor wetting of the coating fluid, or Minimize or reduce the disadvantages associated with the presence of dirt or debris on the surface Therefore, it can be considered as “minimizing fluid”.   The fifth fluid is supplied by the slide coater 34 from the coating backup roller 32 to a sufficient distance. At a reasonable distance, the fifth fluid does not contact the backup roller 32 or the base material 18. When it flows over the front of the first slide block 36 and flows into the vacuum box and the drainpipe. In this case, it can be directed to the slide coater.   The fifth fluid can be composed of a solvent that is compatible with the solvent system of the coating liquid. At the beginning of the process and before starting the flow of coating liquid; coating on the flow of coating liquid For a short period of time; and for a long period of Can simply stop and dispense the coating fluid flow after the coating operation is completed. Wear. The fifth fluid may be, for example, a 100% solvent and is miscible with the solvent used for the coating liquid. Can be selected to be The fifth fluid is a material (particles) that causes dirt. Filter in series so that no fibers, fibers, etc.) are introduced on the coating surface. Or pre-filter.   When the coating is started, the fifth fluid flow starts first and the slide coat The coated surface of the pad 34 is completely pre-wetted and cleaned. Next, the flow of the coating liquid Starting in order (fluid layers 1, 2, 3, 4, ...), the flow of each fluid layer is established. Next, the fifth Fluid flow stops, the coater die moves toward the backup roller 32 and Collect the coating on the tube. Thus, the fifth fluid is a non-stripe coat To facilitate the rapid establishment of a streaming flow.   If the coating is paused or stopped, the coating assembly will The first, second, third and fourth fluids 80, 82, 84, 86 Flow is reduced or stopped to minimize waste of coating liquid.   During a brief pausing of the coating, the flow of the fifth fluid is started, Flow is substantially reduced. Blanket of solvent present on coating liquid on slide surface Drying in the coating fluid may cause streaks when the coating is resumed. Minimizes or eliminates coagulation or particle formation. Resume coating To stop the flow of the fifth fluid, increase the flow of the coating liquid to a normal level, Move the Tadai in the direction of the backup roller 32 to collect the coating on the web You. Thus, the fifth fluid quickly re-establishes a streak-free coating flow. To help you.   While the coating is paused for a long time, the flow of the fifth fluid starts and the flow of the coating liquid starts. It stops completely and only the fifth fluid flows continuously. In this way, slide The entire surface is self-cleaning by a continuous solvent flow and the various surfaces of the slide coater The above residual coating liquid is minimal, if not completely prevented. Coating work Is resumed, the layers of the coating liquid start in order (fluid layers 1, 2, 3, 4, ...), and the fifth fluid Flow continues. When the coating flow is re-established, the fifth fluid flow Stops and the coater die engages the backup roller 32 to apply the coating web. Collect up. Thus, the fifth fluid speeds up the flow of the coating without stripes. Facilitate establishing again.   It should be noted that the above description is given for the sake of illustration only. for example For example, only three slots of the slide coater 34 shown in FIG. The "minimizing" fluid (in this case, the fourth fluid) from the fourth or fifth slot Be distributed. Similarly, if the "minimizing" fluid is a third fluid, the third fluid Minimizes drying of the first and second fluids. Alternatively, a "minimizing" fluid If a second fluid, the second fluid minimizes drying of one coating fluid.   In addition, solvent flow systems need not be manufactured with the same precision as coating systems. No. Therefore, the supply of the solvent layer to the surface of the slide coater can be any suitable Means are good. For example, solvents include spray nozzles, porous wicks, It can be supplied to the slide surface by a salt or the like.   The use of this cleaning / wetting method is illustrated above for the slide application case, It can be easily adapted to curtain coating and extrusion coating operations. Cleaning method of coating die   When the multi-layer slide coating is completed, the coating device needs to be cleaned. In many cases , Separate coater and disassemble coating die, in manifolds and slots and Remove the coating liquid remaining on the slide surface. Disassemble, clean and inspect the die After reassembling and aligning, the next coating operation is started. this is , Labor, cost and time consuming work. All necessary work must be done with precision Often causes damage to the printing die components, requiring repairs and delays May occur. If no damage is found until you start coating, In some cases, products that cannot be used outside of the standard are manufactured.   A cleaning method after the coating operation that avoids the problem of disassembly includes a cleaning configuration shown in FIG. use. Coating die switches from coating mode to cleaning mode (E.g., a coating die may be Edge feeding mode used during coating and recirculation mode used during cleaning It can be manufactured so that it can be switched between. )   This is done using a removable elastomeric manifold end seal 120. This seal rotates the cam lever 121 (shown to perform the sealing action) shown in FIG. Then, it can be compressed to a predetermined position. Removable air in the outflow cavity Remove the end seal 120 of the lastomer system and seal from the side end of the die block. Replace with end seal (not shown) to recirculate (i.e. clean) (Ie coating) mode can be quickly converted. (Fig. 10 Indicates that the tool 120 has a streamlined plug 122, which is In the fluid mode to minimize "dead zones" in the fluid flow path. )   The tank 123 and the pump 124 apply a cleaning fluid such as a solvent (for example, MEK) to the coating. Into one or more fluid slots as fast as possible than the winging speed. S The spray shield 126 disposed on the ride coater 34 is used for cleaning fluid. At least part of the surface 53 of the slide block is protected from spraying and the cleaning fluid is Turn down the minute. In this method, the coating backup roller 32 slides Move away from the coater 34 and slide the cleaning fluid through the drain pipe 128 It is removed from the surface of the coater. The drain pipe 128 communicates with the tank 123 to recirculate the cleaning fluid. An annular loop 130 can be formed. Alternatively, a filter 132 is provided in the recirculation loop 130. Filter the remaining liquid solute or dried solute particles.   This cleaning method applies to other coating methods, such as extrusion and curtain coating. It can also be easily adapted to the law. One advantage is the use of damaging tools Reduce coater damage caused by disassembling or cleaning the coater. It is less. Another advantage is that each coat after a consistent cleaning process. It is the repetitiveness when starting the working. In addition, this cleaning method is faster Thus saving labor costs. Finally, this cleaning method It is much more effective than conventional bar cleaning methods. How to reduce edge waste in slide coating   One problem with multilayer coatings is that the coating thickness varies, An excessively thick edge bead on the coating immediately adjacent to the edge of the coating on the substrate Is to be loaded. This edge bead is problematic and the edges dry poorly. The coating material is transferred to the coating device or the winding on the roll is defective. Super streaks, blockages and wraps and wraps on wound rolls of finished coating material This may cause a problem of adhesion. As a result, a large amount of waste material is applied If you do not shred from these green bead areas of the substrate, the material will be within product specifications Can not do it.   U.S. Pat.No. 4,313,980 (Willemsens, 1982) teaches that the length of the upper Slot is longer than at least one of the slots and the length of any other Changing the length of the slot so that it does not exceed the length creates a beaded edge It is intended to reduce or prevent Willemsens believes that Further preferred embodiments include those that include one or more of the following features: The thickness of each layer with a wide coating width is the thickness of each layer with a narrow coating width. Thicker; (b) the coating layer in direct contact with the web surface to be coated; The surface tension is lower than the surface tension of the web surface; The surface tension of the layers is lower than the surface tension of each layer with a narrow coating width. slot The optimal difference in length must be determined empirically and the table to be coated It depends on the material of the surface and the properties of the coating liquid. Slot length is the width of the coating It should be noted that   U.S. Pat.No. 5,389,150 (Baum et al., 1995) discloses that the length of a slot is Slot insert for adjusting the width of the coating on the id coater is described Have been. They have slots inside or outside the hopper center for edge adjustment Note that it can be tilted to the side. However, at the time of coating, It does not distinguish it from conventional slide coating where all slots are the same length.   The present invention provides an edge bead that monotonically increases and significantly reduces thickness to a target level. It is best to gradually reduce the flow in a narrow area adjacent to the end of the slot. Includes interpretations that can be achieved. Using the present invention, uneven coating Moderate thickness and edge bead formation depend on slot height and / or slot height. Adjust the depth to adjust the flow of the coating liquid at the end of the coating slot. This can be substantially reduced.   A preferred method for adjusting the thickness of the coating edge is to use a strip at the end of the slot. Adjusting the height of the lot. Figure 11 shows a slide with four slots It is a top view of the slide surface of a coater. The height of the third slot adds a wedge-shaped shim To reduce the flow of the coating solution on the slide near the green area. This sim is Inside the slot by friction or by using frictional means or other suitable means. You can have. The position and size of the wedge-shaped shims are, for example, as shown So that 90-99.5% of the slots have a constant slot height and the other parts narrow Can be adjusted. Depending on the size of the slot, the narrower It can be performed, for example, between about 2.5 to 25.4 mm from the green area. Between about 5.1-12.7mm It is preferable to make it narrower, and it is more preferable to make it narrow between 5.1 and 7.6 mm.   An advantage of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 is that the flow of the coating liquid in the slot is related to the height of the slot. It should also be noted that it can be easily calculated as a number. "Tapered" FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the slot.   For this tapered slot, (1) an infinite cavity manifold, (2) a constant viscosity (I.e., Newtonian) fluid, and (3) the effect of the end Assuming that this is the case, the flow rate at the position y in the width direction is as follows. Here, f (y) is defined as follows for the tapered slot. P is pressure, Q is volume flow, L is depth of slot, W is length of entire slot. , V is the length of the slot having a fixed slot height, and 2B is the center of the slot. The height of the slot, μ, is the Newtonian viscosity. Rheologically more complex fluids There are other formulas for this. Also, instead of the above f (y) form, other function forms Can also be inserted. The figure below shows a bevel of this type for V / W = 0.98 4 shows the prediction of normalized flow versus normalized distance for a marked slot.  The flow rate is reduced at the edge of the slot, causing edge beads and consequent waste of the slit. Is substantially reduced. For example, as shown in Example 11 and Example 12 below The edge margin is reduced from about 3.5 cm to about 2 cm by the method of the present invention. Similarly, If necessary, increase the height of the slot outwards to reduce drag at the edges and reduce flow Can be increased.   Yet another way to adjust the edge thickness of the coating is to remove the slurry from the manifold. This is to adjust the distance to the id surface. This distance is also called the slot depth L. When deep near the edge as shown in FIG. 13, the resistance to flow near the edge is reduced. It can increase and decrease the flow of the fluid layer. Adjusting the edge thickness By reducing the length W and the depth L of the slot, the resistance to flow at that point is reduced. Achieved by increasing the flow rate at the end of the slot by reducing drag (Ie, a combination of FIGS. 11 and 13). The depth of the slot shown in FIG. The increasing position and degree may narrow the slots described above and shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. This may be the same as the case of making or tapering.   When these methods are used alone or in combination, the desired coating process can be achieved. File can be formed. For example, an extended slot at the end of a slot Lot height (forming the appearance of a bow tie) increases (or decreases) at the edge of the slot It can be combined with the reduced slot depth. This combination is Further uniformity can be provided in the final coating. All of the following In the example, the final application thickness is determined by the flow on the slide and in the coating bead. Note that the action can change the thickness extruded from the slot. Should.   Next, the objects and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following examples. However, the specific materials and amounts listed in these examples, as well as other conditions and The details and details should not be construed to unduly limit the invention. As mentioned above Aspects of the above technology include curtain coating, extrusion coating and other die supply coating processes And other coating processes including: Example   All materials used in the following examples are Wisconsin, unless otherwise noted. Readily available from standard sources, such as Aldrich Chemical Co., Milwaukee can do. All percentages are by weight unless otherwise specified. The following additional clauses Items and materials were used.   Silver homogenates are described in PCT Publication Nos. WO 95/22785 and WO 95/30931. Prepared as described, and for Examples 2 and 9, 20.8% Shaped silver soap and 2.2% BUTVAR^TMExample 2 containing B-79 resin For examples other than Example 9, 25.2% preformed silver soap and 1.3% B UTVAR^TMIt contained B-79 resin.   Unless otherwise specified, all photothermal emulsifying layers and finish coats are virtually PCT published It was prepared as described in WO 96/33442.   BUTVAR^TMThe B-79 is commercially available from Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Missouri. Polyvinyl butyral resin.   MEK is methyl ethyl ketone (2-butanone).   VITEL^TMPE2200 is a commercially available product from Shell, Houston, Texas. It is a tell resin.   Pentalyn-H is a pentoerythritol ester of a cured natural resin, Commercially available from Hercules, Inc. of Wilmington, Ohio.   One that performs coating on a slide coater and uses a slide coating device 30 The advantages provided by the configuration and method of have been confirmed.   Example 1 and Example 2 are comparative examples, and the slide coating device 30 (fluid composition 2 shows a configuration and method for manufacturing the product structure shown in FIG. Implementation The composition described in Example 1 includes a first fluid layer 80, which forms the subbing layer 16 shown in FIG. But is incompatible with the second fluid layer 84 forming the photosensitive emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. It is. The composition described in Example 2 includes compatible first and second fluids 80,82. These fluids form the undercoat layer 16 shown in FIG. It is incompatible with the third fluid 84 forming 14. First and second layers 80, 82 Are compatible in that they have the same composition but different percentages of solids. Implementation In Example 1 and Example 2, bleeding is observed.   Examples 3 to 10 are coated by the method of the present invention to prevent see-through. The method will be described. Embodiments 11 and 12 provide a book that substantially reduces edge waste. The invention is shown. Example 1 (comparison)   Three solution layers are made of a blue-tinted polyethylene terephthalate base material (0.17 mm thick, 71 cm wide) Coated on top. Using the preferred slide configuration described above, set the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) to 2 5 ° and the arrangement angle P were set to −7 °. (The slot 48 for the second fluid was unnecessary.) These slide configurations used are shown in Table A-1 below.   The first layer 80 is the subbing layer 16 shown in FIG. 1 and comprises VITEL in MEK at 16.7% solids.^TM PE2200. This layer enhances the adhesion of the photothermally emulsified layer 14 to the substrate 18. No. The second layer 84 is the photothermal emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. The third layer 86 has the finish shown in FIG. This is the coating layer 12. Layer 82 shown in FIG. 2 is not present in this embodiment. These three The solution properties of the coating layer are described in Table A-2 below. The value described for viscosity is 1.0s using Brookfield viscometer^-1Measured at a shear rate of Determined from the percentage solids versus density curve for each formulation in the layer.   The coating speed is 30.5m / min and the gap G 0.25mm, vacuum applied to the whole coating bead 2.5mm H_TwoI went to O. S A see-through is observed on the ride surface 53, stripes are formed, and the coating quality is I failed. Example 2 (comparison)   Four solution layers were coated on a transparent polyethylene terephthalate substrate (0.05 mm thick, 21.6 cm Width). Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) ) Was 25 °, and the arrangement angle P was -7 °. Table B-1 below shows the slide configuration used. Show.   The first two layers 80 and 82 constitute the subbing layer 16 shown in FIG. Layer 80 is solid VITEL in MEK at 14.7%^TMIt is a solution of PE2200 resin. Layer 82 is also VITEL in MEK^TM It is a solution of PE2200 resin, but the percentage of solids is 30.5%. Layer 82 is completely mixed with layer 80 It is compatible. Layer 82 is VITEL in MEK^TMA solution of PE2200 resin, but 30.5% solids . Layer 82 is completely miscible with layer 80. The third layer 84 is a typical photothermal device as shown in FIG. The emulsifying layer 14. This layer was prepared as described in Table B-3 below. This milk The density of the activated layer 14 is greater than the layer 82 as described in Table B-2 below. This emulsified layer Contains no developer, stabilizer, antifogging agent, etc., but otherwise, a photothermal imaging material This is the same as the photothermal emulsified layer used in the production of The fourth layer 86 is a finish coat shown in FIG. Layer 12. The solution properties of the four coating layers are described in Table B-2 below. Sticky The value described for the degree is a shear rate of about 1.0 s using a Brookfield viscometer.^-1 The density is determined from the solids versus density curve for each formulation in the layer. You.   The coating speed is 30.5m / min and the gap G 0.25mm, vacuum applied to the whole coating bead is 25mm H_TwoI went to O. S Bleed through was observed on the ride surface, streaks were formed, and the coating quality was poor. It passed. Example 3   Four solution layers are made of a blue-tinted polyethylene terephthalate base material (0.17 mm thick, 71 cm wide) Coated on top. Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) Was 25 °, and the arrangement angle P was −7 °. The slide configuration used is shown in Table C-1 below I do.   As before, the first two layers 80 and 82 constitute the subbing layer 16 shown in FIG. Layer 80 is VITEL in MEK at 16.7% solids^TMIt is a solution of PE2200 resin. Layer 82 is also ME VITEL in K^TMSolution of PE2200 resin, but 42.7% solids. Layer 82 is complete with layer 80 Is miscible. The third layer 84 is the photothermal emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. Table C- below As shown in FIG. 2, the density of layer 84 is lower than the density of layer 82. The fourth layer 86 is shown in FIG. This is the finish coating layer 12. The solution properties of these four layers are described in Table C-2 below. Sticky The value described for the degree is a shear rate of about 1.0 s using a Brookfield viscometer.^-1 The density is determined from the solids versus density curve for each formulation in the layer. You.   The coating speed is 30.5m / min and the gap G 0.25mm, vacuum applied to the whole coating bead is 25mm H_TwoI went to O. S No see-through was observed on the ride surface, and excellent coating quality was achieved. Example 4   Four solution layers on a blue-tinged polyethylene terephthalate substrate (0.17mm thick, 71cm width) Was applied. Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) is 2 The arrangement angle P was 5 ° and the arrangement angle P was -7 °. The slide configuration used is shown in Table D-1 below. You.   As before, the first two layers 80 and 82 constitute the subbing layer 16 shown in FIG. Layer 80 is VITEL in MEK at 14.0% solids^TMIt is a solution of PE2200 resin. Layer 82 is also ME VITEL in K^TMA solution of PE2200 resin, but 33.0% solids. Layer 82 is complete with layer 80 Is miscible. The third layer 84 is the photothermal emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. Table D- below As shown in FIG. 2, the density of layer 84 is equal to the density of layer 82. The fourth layer 86 is shown in FIG. This is the finish coating layer 12. The solution properties of these four layers are described in Table D-2 below. Sticky The value described for the degree is a shear rate of about 1.0 s using a Brookfield viscometer.^-1 The density is determined from the solids versus density curve for each formulation in the layer. You.  The coating speed is 30.5m / min and the gap G 0.25mm, vacuum applied to the whole coating bead 13mm H_TwoI went to O. S No see-through was observed on the ride surface, and excellent coating quality was achieved. Example 5     Four solution layers were coated with a blue-tinted polyethylene terephthalate substrate (0.17 mm thick, 71 cm Width). Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) ) Was 25 ° and the arrangement angle P was −7 °. Table E-1 below shows the slide configuration used. Describe.   As before, the first two layers 80 and 82 constitute the subbing layer 16 shown in FIG. Layer 80 is VITEL in MEK at 10.6% solids^TMIt is a solution of PE2200 resin. Layer 82 is also ME VITEL in K^TMPE2200 resin solution, 43.2% solids is there. Layer 82 is completely miscible with layer 80. The third layer 84 comprises the photothermal milk shown in FIG. Layer 14. As shown in Table E-2, the density of layer 84 is lower than the density of layer 82. Fourth Layer 86 is the finish coat layer 12 shown in FIG. The solution properties of these four layers are shown in the table below. Describe in E-2. Values listed for viscosity use Brookfield viscometer And shear rate about 1.0s^-1And the density is the percentage of solids for each formulation in the layer Determined from the density curve.   The coating speed is 30.5m / min and the gap G 1.3mm, vacuum applied to the whole coating bead is 18mm H_TwoI went to O. Sura No bleeding was observed on the surface of the id, and excellent coating quality was achieved. Example 6   Three solution layers with a blue tinted polyethylene terephthalate substrate (6.8 mil thickness, 28 in width) Coated on top. Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) Was 25 °, and the arrangement angle P was −7 °. The slide configurations used are listed in Table F-1 below I do.   Layer 80 is Layer 16 shown in FIG. 1, Pentalyn-H resin in MEK at 50.0% solids Consisting of a solution of The second layer 84 is the photothermal emulsifying layer 14 shown in FIG. Solution 80 and And 84 have the same density. The third layer 86 is the finish coating layer 12 shown in FIG. These three The solution properties of the coating layer are described in Table F-2 below. Describe viscosity Value is about 1.0 s using a Brookfield viscometer.^-1Measured with the density Is determined from the percent solids versus density curve for each formulation in the layer.  The coating is performed at a speed of 23 m / min and the application gap G from the backup roller is .25mm, the vacuum applied to the whole coating bead is 2.5mm H_TwoI went to O. Sura No bleeding was observed on the surface of the id, and excellent coating quality was achieved. Example 7     Apply three solution layers to a blue-tinted polyethylene terephthalate substrate (0.17 mm thick, 71 cm Width). Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (FIG. 4) Reference) was 25 °, and the arrangement angle P was −7 °. This substrate contains a halation-resistant dye. Has a halation backcoat. The slide configurations used are described in Table G-1 below. You.   The dried photothermal element resulting from this coating does not include a subbing layer. First and The second and second layers 80 and 84 constitute the photothermal emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. Layer 84 is substantially Specifically, it was prepared as described in US Pat. No. 5,541,054. Layer 80 is Later, the proportion of solids from this solution was further reduced. The third layer 86 has the finish shown in FIG. This is the coating layer 12. The density of this layer 12 is lower than the density of layer 84. These three coats The solution properties of the rolling layer are described in Table G-2 below. The values listed for viscosity are About 1.0s shear rate using a Lookfield viscometer^-1The density is measured in each of the layers Determined from the solids versus density curves for each formulation.   The coating is performed at a speed of 23 m / min and the application gap G from the backup roller is .25mm, vacuum applied to the whole coating bead is 10mm H_TwoI went to O. This fruit In an embodiment, the first support layer is self-cleanable by the support layer and has a thickness of 72.3 μm. You. No bleeding was observed on the slide surface and excellent coating Quality was achieved. Example 8       Four solution layers were coated with a blue-tinged polyethylene terephthalate base material (0.17 mm thick, 71c m width). Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) ) Was 25 ° and the arrangement angle P was −7 °. Table H-1 below shows the slide configuration used. Describe.   As before, the first two layers 80 and 82 constitute the subbing layer 16 shown in FIG. Layer 80 is VITEL in MEK at 14.0% solids^TMIt is a solution of PE2200 resin. Layer 82 is also ME VITEL in K^TMA solution of PE2200 resin, but 40.3% solids. The third layer 84 is shown in FIG. This is a photothermal emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. The fourth layer 86 is the finish coating layer 12 shown in FIG. This The solution properties of these four coating layers are described in Table H-2 below. About viscosity The values listed are about 1.0 s shear rate using a Brookfield viscometer.^-1Measured with The density is determined from the solids versus density curve for each formulation of the layer.   Coating is performed from a backup roller at a line speed of 30.5 m / min. The gap G is 0.25mm and the vacuum applied to the whole coating bead is 30mm H_TwoDo o At a line speed of 152 m / min, the coating gap G is 0.25 mm, and the applied vacuum level is 63 mm H._Two I went to O. No bleeding is observed on the slide surface, excellent coating Quality has been achieved. Example 9   The following examples show that increasing the thickness of the first support layer slows the penetration of other support layers. To demonstrate that bleeding can be prevented.   The solution prepared as described in Example 2 (Comparative Example) was Coated on a tallate substrate (0.05 mm thick, 22 cm wide) as described in Example 2. , The wet thickness of layer 82 increased from 5 μm to 17 μm. Coating is 30.5m / min At the speed, the coating gap G from the backup roller is 0.25 mm, and the coating bead Apply 25 mm of vacuum to the body_TwoI went to O. No see-through on the slide surface And excellent coating quality was achieved. Example 10   Example 7 was repeated using pure MEK supplied from slot 46. This implementation The examples demonstrate the use of a pure organic solvent as a support layer. Observed on the slide surface Minimal bleed through quickly self-cleaning and excellent coating quality achieved . Example 11   Three solution layers are made of a blue-tinted polyethylene terephthalate base material (0.17 mm thick, 71 cm wide) Coated on top. Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) Was 25 °, and the arrangement angle P was −7 °. All slots have a single width It was a fixed slot height. This substrate is a halation resistant dye containing a halation dye. It had a backing. The slide configuration used is described in Table I-1 below.   The dried photothermal element resulting from this coating did not include a subbing layer. the above Similarly, the first and second layers 80 and 84 constitute the photothermal emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. You. Layer 84 is prepared substantially as described in PCT Publication No. WO 96/33442. did. Layer 80 was then diluted to lower the percentage of solids below this solution. Third layer Reference numeral 86 denotes the finish coating layer 12 shown in FIG. The solution properties of these three coating layers Are described in Table I-2 below. Values listed for viscosity are based on Brookfield viscosity. Shear rate about 1.0s using a degree meter^-1And the density is determined for each formulation in the layer Determined from a solids versus density curve.   The coating is performed at a speed of 21 m / min and the application gap G from the backup roller is zero. .25mm, vacuum applied to the whole coating bead 20mm H_TwoI went to O. This subordinate The optical density obtained in the next slot is shown in the following figure.  As shown, severe edge beading occurs and uniform coating weight is achieved. About 3.5 cm of edge waste occurs before Example 12   Three solution layers on a blue polyethylene terephthalate substrate (0.17 thickness, 71cm width) Was applied. This substrate has a halation resistant back coat containing a halation resistant dye I was Using the preferred slide configuration described above, the slide angle S (see FIG. 4) is 25 ° And the arrangement angle P was −7 °. The slot height of the slot 50 shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 with W = 63.5 cm and V = 62.2 cm. A slot shape was formed. The slot height of the other slots is It was constant. The slide configuration used is described in Table J-1 below.   The dried photothermal element resulting from this coating did not include a subbing layer. the above Similarly, the first and second layers 80 and 84 constitute the photothermal emulsion layer 14 shown in FIG. You. Layer 84 is prepared substantially as described in PCT Publication No. WO 96/33442. did. Layer 80 was then diluted to lower the percentage of solids below this solution. Third layer Reference numeral 86 denotes the finish coating layer 12 shown in FIG. The solution properties of these three coating layers , Described in Table J-2 below. Values listed for viscosity are based on Brookfield viscosity. Shear rate about 1.0s using a degree meter^-1And the density is determined for each formulation in the layer Determined from a solids versus density curve.   The coating is performed at a speed of 21 m / min and the application gap G from the backup roller is zero. .25 mm, vacuum applied to the entire coating bead 13 mm H_TwoI went to O. This diagonal The optical density profile obtained with the slotted slot configuration is `` constant shim height and Dashed Shim Height Edge Profile Comparison " . As can be seen, the heavy edge bead is virtually eliminated (thickness, The optical density increases monotonically relatively quickly) resulting in (a) reduced edge waste, In the example, it is reduced from about 3.5 cm to about 2 cm, and (b) the idler roller is Accidentally covered, i.e. reduced "pick-off", and (c) reduced the formation of severe stripes Was.   Reasonable alterations and modifications of the above disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. It is possible without departing from the spirit or scope. For example, the present invention is described herein. The present invention can be applied to a fluid device other than the image forming apparatus. Of these fluid devices One example is a data storage medium or element, such as a magnetic computer tape, floppy disk. Equipment used in the manufacture of hard disk or rigid discs or diskettes. You. Another such fluidic device is another type of imaging medium, such as photothermal, photosensitive, And other forms of imaging media or elements. It is a place. Various other streams that can benefit from multilayer coating technology Body devices, such as fluidic devices for photoresist elements, would benefit from the present invention be able to.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme court ゛ (Reference) G03F 7/16 G03F 7/16 7/30 501 7/30 501 G11B 5/842 G11B 5/842 Z (81 ) Designated countries EP (AT, BE, CH, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG) , CI, CM, GA, GN, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, KE, LS, MW, SD, SZ, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, (KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ, DE, DK , EE, ES, FI, GB, GE, GH, HU, ID, IL, IS, JP, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, UA, UG, UZ, VN , YU, ZW (72) Inventor Barb, Apana Buoy Post Office Box 33427, St Paul, Minnesota, United States 55133-3427 United States 55133-3427 Inventor Wallace, Lawrence Bee, United States 55133-3427 Minnesota・ Paul, Post Office Box 33427

Claims (1)

[Claims]   1． At the edge of the coating on the substrate (18) applied to the substrate with the slide coater (34) A method for minimizing waste caused by the resulting defect, wherein the slide coater is , At least a first slot (46) through which the first coating liquid (55) flows, and a second coating liquid (60) through which the first coating liquid (55) flows. A second slot (48), wherein the first slot is a major portion of the first slot. And a first slot width including left and right ends of the first slot,   The first slide liquid is applied at a first flow rate from a main portion of the first slot to the first slide table. On the surface (53), further flowing on the substrate,   The first coating solution is further applied from the end of the first slot onto the first slide surface. Flowing on the base material before the first coating liquid has a second flow rate. A right end of the first slot and a left end of the first slot having a third flow rate. And wherein said second and third flow rates are different from said first flow rate;   Flowing the second coating liquid from the second slot onto a second slide surface (53) Wherein the second slide surface is positioned such that the second coating liquid is located in front of the second slide surface. The first and second coating liquids flow on the first slide surface on the first slide surface, and The coating liquid is arranged on the first slide surface so that the coating liquid flows on the substrate. Directed steps; A method that includes   2． The method of claim 1, wherein the first flow rate is greater than the second and third flow rates. Law.   3． The method of claim 2, wherein the second and third flow rates are substantially equal.   Four. The flow rate of the first coating liquid is determined by the first flow rate and the second and third flow rates. The body thickness is substantially at the first slide surface adjacent the main portion of the first slot; Uniform and adjacent to at least one of the left and right ends of the first slot The method of claim 1, wherein the surface generally decreases at the first slide surface.   Five. The thickness of the first slot adjacent to both left and right portions of the first slot is 5. The method of claim 4, wherein said method generally reduces at the ride surface.   6． The difference between the first flow rate and the second and third flow rates results in a coating on the substrate. The thickness of the coating at one or both edges of the liquid is the thickness of the two edges The method of claim 1, wherein the coating thickness is prevented from being substantially greater than an intervening coating thickness.   7． The first slot has a first slot height H, and the first coating liquid is applied to the first slot. The second flow rate flows from the right end of the slot, and the second flow rate flows from the left end of the first slot. Flowing at a flow rate of 3   The height of the first slot on at least one of the left and right ends of the first slot is: So as to be lower than the height of the first slot in the main part of the first slot. Forming the first slot;   Flowing the first coating liquid such that the first coating liquid flows on the first slide surface; Steps and The method of claim 1, comprising:   8． The forming step includes the step of forming a right end of the first slot and the first slot. The height of the first slot at the left end of the first slot is the first slot of the main portion of the first slot. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first slot is formed to be less than a slot height. .   9． Wherein the first slot has left and right edges of the first slot; As a result, the height of the first slot is at least at the left and right edges of the first slot. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein said one is also reduced within a range of 2.5 to 25.4 mm from one.   Ten. According to the forming step, the height of the first slot is increased by the first slot. Contracting at about 90% of the length of the first slot and decreasing at about 10% of the length of the first slot. The method of claim 9   11． The first slot has a first slot length, and the second slot has the first slot length. 2. The method of claim 1 having a second slot length substantially equal to one slot length. Law.   12． The third coating liquid (66) flows from the third slot (50) onto the third slide surface (53). A third slide surface, wherein the third coating liquid is applied to the third slide surface; Flows onto the second coating liquid on the second slide surface and the first and second The first and second slides are arranged such that second and third coating liquids flow on the substrate. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of positioning and orienting with respect to the surface. The method described.   13. The first and second coating liquids are fluids used in the production of an imaging element; The method of claim 1.   14. The first and second coating liquids are fluids for manufacturing a data storage element; The method of claim 1.   15． Flowing the first coating solution at a second flow rate from the right end of the first slot, Flowing at a third flow rate from the left end of one slot,   The first slot depth of at least one of the left and right ends of the first slot is , The first slot being deeper than the first slot depth at the main part of the first slot. Forming one slot;   The first coating liquid is applied to the first coating liquid so that the first coating liquid flows on the first slide surface. Flowing from the first slot; The method of claim 1, comprising:   16． The forming step includes the step of forming a right end of the first slot and the first slot. The depth of the first slot at the left end of the first slot at the main portion of the first slot Claiming that the first slot is formed to be deeper than the depth of one slot. Item 15. The method according to Item 15.   17． The first slot has left and right edges of the first slot, and the forming step The depth of the first slot is less than the left and right ends of the first slot. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein both decrease within 5-13 mm from one another.   18． Shredding the coated web to form at least one slit roll Forming the slit roll into a sheet of sensitized image forming medium. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:   19. Shredding the coated web to form at least one slit roll Forming and converting the slit roll into a sheet of data storage medium. 15. The method of claim 14, comprising: